Every year, distracted driving takes the lives of around 3,500 people. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), 9 people are killed each day due to distracted driving behaviors. And while using a phone behind the wheel is one of the biggest culprits, it’s not the only thing that can pull a driver's attention away from the road.
Keeping drivers engaged and eliminating these distractions is key to fleet safety. Fleet managers should implement policies and training to minimize risks and ensure their drivers stay focused on what matters most so they can keep their drivers and motorists safe on the road.
3 Types of Driving Distractions You Should Know
- Visual: Even a quick glance away from the road—checking a phone, GPS, or roadside distraction outside the cab—can lead to disaster. Eyes must stay forward, especially in high-risk zones.
- Manual: Hands belong on the wheel, not adjusting the radio, reaching for items, or grabbing a drink. Any delay in reaction time increases risk for drivers and the fleet.
- Cognitive: Letting your mind wander, stressing about things at home, or getting lost in a conversation can take your focus away from driving safely.
3 Easy Ways to Minimize Distractions on the Road
Modern trucks come loaded with technology and endless distractions, but staying sharp behind the wheel is non-negotiable. With a few smart habits, drivers can dramatically reduce risks and stay locked in on the road ahead.
1. Plan Ahead
Good trip planning sets you up for success. Before you hit the road:
- Check weather and traffic so you’re ready for whatever’s ahead.
- Set your route and GPS before you roll.
- Know where you plan to stop and have a backup option just in case.
- Keep snacks or drinks within easy reach — no fumbling while driving.
- Make GPS glances part of your mirror checks to stay aware without losing focus.
2. Limit In-Cab Distractions
Every second your eyes leave the road, you’re gambling with more than just a ticket—you’re risking lives, your livelihood, and your future. Consequences of in-cab distractions include:
- Lost Income: Holding your phone while driving can lead to a $2,750 fine, and repeated violations could even cost you your CDL. No license, no job.
- Increased Insurance Costs: A distracted driving citation could hike up your insurance rates, cutting into your hard-earned paycheck.
- Tragic Accidents: A moment of distraction is all it takes to cause a crash that could harm others.
Some drivers go all in—phones completely out of reach. That works. If you keep yours nearby, mount it securely and hands-free. It's not just safer, it’s the law.
3. Stay Mentally Focused
Worried about something at home? That’s completely understandable, but when you're behind the wheel, your full attention should be on the road. If something is weighing on your mind, take the time to address it once you're safely parked. Let your loved ones know you'll check in, just not while driving.
Your Safety Is the Priority
Keep in mind who is waiting for you at the end of your trip! Your family, loved ones and friends are counting on you to return safely.
As someone who's been in fleet safety for years, I’ve seen firsthand how even the smallest distractions can lead to major consequences. At Nirvana Insurance, we work 1:1 with our insured fleets regularly to help them enhance safety protocols and implement distracted driving avoidance strategies.
Take Action Now:
- Spread the Word: Share this post to raise awareness for Distracted Driving Awareness Month
- Make the Pledge: Commit to safer driving with the NCS Safe Driving Pledge
- Stay Protected: Contact us to learn how Nirvana Insurance’s in-house safety team works 1:1 with fleets to enhance programs and keep drivers covered where it matters most.
Nirvana is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving during the National Safety Council’s April's Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Stay tuned as we dive into key insights, prevention strategies, and real-life impacts to help keep roads safer for everyone.
Every year, distracted driving takes the lives of around 3,500 people. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), 9 people are killed each day due to distracted driving behaviors. And while using a phone behind the wheel is one of the biggest culprits, it’s not the only thing that can pull a driver's attention away from the road.
Keeping drivers engaged and eliminating these distractions is key to fleet safety. Fleet managers should implement policies and training to minimize risks and ensure their drivers stay focused on what matters most so they can keep their drivers and motorists safe on the road.
3 Types of Driving Distractions You Should Know
- Visual: Even a quick glance away from the road—checking a phone, GPS, or roadside distraction outside the cab—can lead to disaster. Eyes must stay forward, especially in high-risk zones.
- Manual: Hands belong on the wheel, not adjusting the radio, reaching for items, or grabbing a drink. Any delay in reaction time increases risk for drivers and the fleet.
- Cognitive: Letting your mind wander, stressing about things at home, or getting lost in a conversation can take your focus away from driving safely.
3 Easy Ways to Minimize Distractions on the Road
Modern trucks come loaded with technology and endless distractions, but staying sharp behind the wheel is non-negotiable. With a few smart habits, drivers can dramatically reduce risks and stay locked in on the road ahead.
1. Plan Ahead
Good trip planning sets you up for success. Before you hit the road:
- Check weather and traffic so you’re ready for whatever’s ahead.
- Set your route and GPS before you roll.
- Know where you plan to stop and have a backup option just in case.
- Keep snacks or drinks within easy reach — no fumbling while driving.
- Make GPS glances part of your mirror checks to stay aware without losing focus.
2. Limit In-Cab Distractions
Every second your eyes leave the road, you’re gambling with more than just a ticket—you’re risking lives, your livelihood, and your future. Consequences of in-cab distractions include:
- Lost Income: Holding your phone while driving can lead to a $2,750 fine, and repeated violations could even cost you your CDL. No license, no job.
- Increased Insurance Costs: A distracted driving citation could hike up your insurance rates, cutting into your hard-earned paycheck.
- Tragic Accidents: A moment of distraction is all it takes to cause a crash that could harm others.
Some drivers go all in—phones completely out of reach. That works. If you keep yours nearby, mount it securely and hands-free. It's not just safer, it’s the law.
3. Stay Mentally Focused
Worried about something at home? That’s completely understandable, but when you're behind the wheel, your full attention should be on the road. If something is weighing on your mind, take the time to address it once you're safely parked. Let your loved ones know you'll check in, just not while driving.
Your Safety Is the Priority
Keep in mind who is waiting for you at the end of your trip! Your family, loved ones and friends are counting on you to return safely.
As someone who's been in fleet safety for years, I’ve seen firsthand how even the smallest distractions can lead to major consequences. At Nirvana Insurance, we work 1:1 with our insured fleets regularly to help them enhance safety protocols and implement distracted driving avoidance strategies.
Take Action Now:
- Spread the Word: Share this post to raise awareness for Distracted Driving Awareness Month
- Make the Pledge: Commit to safer driving with the NCS Safe Driving Pledge
- Stay Protected: Contact us to learn how Nirvana Insurance’s in-house safety team works 1:1 with fleets to enhance programs and keep drivers covered where it matters most.
Nirvana is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving during the National Safety Council’s April's Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Stay tuned as we dive into key insights, prevention strategies, and real-life impacts to help keep roads safer for everyone.
